'Season of giving' doesn't have to end

Now that the "season of giving" has passed, we'd like to remind you this is one season that doesn't have to end.

After all, being charitable never goes out of fashion. There still are people who are homeless in Fairfield County; think about that as temperatures drop below zero Monday night. There still are people going hungry; remember that the next time you go through the grocery to stock up for the next winter storm.

The great thing about the Christmas season is people become so much more receptive to the messages of those in need and the charities that help them. Now that the holidays are gone and we've moved on to 2014, we suggest you make your New Year's resolutions about more than just yourself and your immediate family, if you haven't already.

This doesn't have to be a monetary "resolution." There are a lot of ways to help. Any number of nonprofits in the area are looking for volunteers. Time is just as valuable, if not more so, than money. And if you don't want to join a specific organization, just keep your eyes open; there are plenty of one-time activities, such as community cleanups, where you can pitch in.

And it turns out, few people would turn away a simple, neighborly gesture; just shoveling your neighbor's sidewalk is sure to earn you at least a smile and a wave of thanks.

If you can give in a big way, then great; you should do that. But maintaining a charitable spirit year-round doesn't have to be "big." It simply can be being more polite to fellow shoppers at the store, or being nice to service workers who might be having a bad day instead of snapping at them. Or just being more friendly in general.

Too often, we spend a lot of time thinking about these things, and feeling good about ourselves for simply being nicer or more charitable in December. We can all have that same feeling year-round; it's up to each of us.

We wish you all a happy new year, and remind you that it is something that can be earned.

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'Season of giving' doesn't have to end

Now that the 'season of giving' has passed, we'd like to remind you this is one season that doesn't have to end.